The students also worked in partnership with South Texas Milling Inc., who provided local goods like caramels and pickled carrots to sell for fundraising.

"If you were at the Telferner Store it was easy to sell a lot," said fifth-grader Allison De Leon. "This new playground is so much better."

The kids agreed more improvements still need to be made in and out of the playground, including a merry-go-round, more books for the book fair, new computers, laptops, projectors, better cafeteria food and sunnier skies.

"We haven't been able to play on it a lot," said third-grader Nevaeh Ramirez.

The improvements made on the playground benefit the elementary school's surrounding community, Wood-Hi Benefit Club Treasurer Tassley Hencerling said.

"Some bring their families here for birthday parties and events," Hencerling said. "This was in the community's best interest."

Dow Chemical spokeswoman Trish Thompson agreed.

"This project was appealing because it not only serves the school, but the community as well," Thompson said. "We're very impressed by the fact that the students helped support the project."